Childhood Development
Babies start to learn about the world around them very young. Children’s early experiences affect their physical, cognitive, emotional and social growth. Improving the early years of their lives is the best way to ensure their success. The evidence is clear. High-quality programs, including qualified teachers, research-based curricula and assessments and family engagement are key to nurturing young minds.
Providing high-quality early education is one of the smartest investments we can make. Research shows the first years of a child’s life – when their brain is forming – set the foundation for success in school.
To become productive adults, children need strong families, good health, quality learning, and supportive communities. And yet, millions of children and youth lack the support they need to stay on track.
Our Goals
We fund programs that increase the number of children who:
- Meet developmental milestones
- Succeed in school
- Engage with their communities
- Build resilience
- Have skills needed for a bright future
Investment Areas
- Developmental Screening
- Early Development
- Healthy Development
- Language and Literacy
- Positive Parenting
- Ready to Learn
- Support for Children and Families
- Youth Development
Programs We Fund
Check out the programs we fund for childhood development and early education HERE.
One of the programs we are proud to fund and be involved with is Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library! Enroll your child in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and he or she receives a FREE book every month until they turn five!
Along with funding enrichment programs, Oshkosh Area United Way is involved in the Oshkosh-Winneconne Community Back 2 School Fair held each August. The Back 2 School Fair helps low-income families in the area, preparing their children for a new school year by providing them with school supplies, haircuts, clothes and more!